John Manzelli is a proven leader with over 25 years of executive and educational experience, revitalizing institutions, managing multimillion-dollar operations, and forging strong partnerships between the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. He began his career in Washington, D.C. as a Staff Assistant to U.S. Congressman William Lehman, where he gained firsthand experience in public service and constituent advocacy. He currently serves as Producing Artistic Director of the Dorothy Jemison Day Theater in downtown Birmingham and Chair of the Theatre Department at the Alabama School of Fine Arts. Over his career, he has taught and mentored students at both ASFA and Barry University, totaling more than 25 years in education. Under his leadership, the DJD Theater has doubled its programming, increased revenue by 50%, and become a thriving, fiscally sound cultural hub. His visionary leadership has been nationally recognized with awards including the Visionary Award from the South Florida Writers Association and recognition by the Tony Awards as an Outstanding Theatre Educator of the Year.​John brings the same strategic, results-driven mindset to civic leadership. His experience includes managing complex budgets, negotiating public-private partnerships, securing competitive grant funding, and building trusted relationships with business, civic, and educational leaders. From launching economic development initiatives to advancing inclusive cultural programming, John understands how to turn bold ideas into real-world impact. He holds a BFA in Political Science and Theatre from Barry University and an MFA from Illinois State University. Trusted, competent, and future-focused, John Manzelli is ready to bring smart, community-first leadership to Homewood’s future.​ 

Fun Fact: John Manzelli spent 20 years as a professional actor of stage and screen. He has appeared in more than a dozen TV and Film projects. Most notably two season on the Starz Network's series Magic City.  ​Return to Homepage​​​